You are not your story!

My office a beautiful summer day at Hvasser, Tjøme, Norway.

I think it's possible for everyone to create a new story no matter the circumstances. My story is a story about that dreams can be achieved with the right mindset, a strong inner drive, a hunger for new knowledge, and a willingness to sacrifice something to achieve the dream. No matter what you have experienced in life it is important to remember that you are not your story. Nor is it up to others to define who you are. You must own your story, and you can begin today. 
- Nina Cappelen

The section above is from the introduction to the selfhelp book I am currently writing. For many years I thought I was my story. A destiny I was assigned for the rest of my life - unable to change it. Fortunately, today I know better. But it has taken many years to achieve this insight, and that would not have been possible without exploring new environments. For one thing I'm sure of, the environment you're in and the people you hang out with can either be limiting or harmful to your self-development, or it can take your personal development to a whole new level. So be aware of who you associate with, because the truth is that you become the average of the five people you hang out with mostly. If you are like me and like to be continually learning and growing, you need to associate with people who are more skilled than you are, because these people will lift you higher - enabling you to create a new story.

Read also My script is sent to the publisher

Life is about growth and change, and when you are no longer doing either, you`ve received your first whisper. Pay attention to what makes you feel energized, connected, and stimulated. Follow your intuition, do what you love, and you will do more than succeed. You will soar. 
- Oprah Winfrey